Ireland are in buoyant mood as they tackle Scotland today in their first match in the Boys Home International championship over the Royal and North Devon course at Westward Ho - and they believe that this could be their year.

The Irish coach, Howard Bennett, thinks this is the most open home international series for years, with little to choose between the four countries.

Waterford's Lee Dalton and David Jones, from City of Derry, are the most experienced players in the side and have the lowest handicaps. Dalton was in America last year on a David Leadbetter scholarship and gained considerably from that experience, and Jones has played for Ireland for two years.

Ulster boys champion Gary Wardlow, and Robert Symes, the Leinster Open Youths title holder, both from Shandon Park, are going to work at a golf club in Spain in September and are keen to see that this is a successful send-off.

"All the boys are playing well and we must surely be in with a chance," said captain James Greene.

Last year was something of an embarrassment as Ireland got well and truly beaten by both Scotland and England, losing 11-4 and 14-1 respectively, but beat Wales 9 1/2 - 5 1/2 .

"We are confident that this year we can give the other countries a good game and possibly win," said Greene.

England are the defending champions and they play Wales today without their teenage star, Justin Rose, who is on Walker Cup duty in America.